Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva made a significant visit to Bolivia on July 9, 2024, meeting with Bolivian President Luis Arce in Santa Cruz de la Sierra. The visit came just 12 days after a failed military coup attempt against the Bolivian government, which Lula strongly condemned.Lula emphasized the importance of defending democracy, stating, ‘Bolivia cannot fall back into this trap. We cannot tolerate authoritarian fantasies or coups’. He drew parallels between the recent events in Bolivia and Brazil’s own experiences, including the January 8, 2023 invasion of government buildings by supporters of former President Bolsonaro.The two leaders discussed several key issues:1. Bolivia’s recent entry into Mercosur, which Lula welcomed as a positive step for regional integration.
2. The possibility of Bolivia joining the BRICS group, which Brazil views favorably.
3. Expectations for Venezuela’s return to Mercosur ‘very quickly,’ according to Lula.
4. Increased bilateral cooperation, including potential investments in Bolivia’s gas sector and a fertilizer factory in the border region.Lula also extended an invitation to Bolivia to participate in the upcoming G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro in November.Meanwhile, in Argentina, President Javier Milei signed the ‘Pacto de Mayo’ agreement with 17 out of 23 provincial governors and the Mayor of Buenos Aires. The pact aims to reform the country’s economy, education, and labor systems. Milei also sparked controversy by riding a tank during a military parade to celebrate Argentina’s 208th independence anniversary.Lula indirectly criticized Milei’s absence from the recent Mercosur summit, calling it ‘bobagem’ (nonsense). This highlights ongoing tensions within the region, even as efforts for greater integration continue.
Key points
- Lula strongly condemned the recent coup attempt in Bolivia, emphasizing the importance of defending democracy.
- Bolivia has joined Mercosur, and there are discussions about its potential entry into BRICS.
- Lula expects Venezuela to return to Mercosur soon, aiming for greater regional integration.
- Argentine President Javier Milei signed the ‘Pacto de Mayo’ agreement and participated in a controversial military parade.
